After conducting a large-scale study, scientists have discovered the hidden and beneficial effects of common pastimes on men’s mental health and mental development.
There comes a time in many people’s lives when they turn their attention to amateur fishing, which seemed boring and mundane. Perhaps we should all try this type of recreation, not only for the thrill, but also to improve our mental state. A recent study has shown that men who regularly go fishing may have a mental advantage over those who do not, Men’s Journal reports.
This interesting study was conducted by researchers from Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Ulster, and Queen’s University Belfast. They immersed themselves in the world of recreational fishing to understand its impact on mental health.
The study involved more than 1,700 men who talked about their fishing habits, past mental health, and general well-being. As a result of the research, the scientists learned that men who regularly go fishing were about 17% less likely to experience mental health problems compared to those who rarely or never engaged in this activity.
Also, fishing not only has a positive effect on mental health, but also seems to increase this effect with increasing frequency. Dr. Mike Trott, one of the researchers, noted that while they had assumed there were some benefits, they did not expect them to increase the more often a person goes fishing.
However, it should be noted that only men participated in the study. Therefore, despite the large sample size, it is unclear whether the same results would be applicable to women. The research team suggests that the calmness and concentration required for fishing can be classified as a type of “mindfulness-oriented activity.” Activities such as yoga or tai chi are known to help you relax and focus. So, if fishing doesn’t appeal to you, try coloring or other similar meditative, calming activities.
Dr. Drew Ramsey, a psychiatrist at Columbia University, emphasized the importance of the study, especially as it sheds light on men’s mental health. He noted that fishing requires special skills such as coordination, knowledge and patience. At the same time, he expressed a warning: although fishing can be good for mental health, it is better not to combine it with excessive alcohol consumption, as this can negate all the benefits.
Thus, fishing can be more than just a fun hobby. For many, it can be a way to improve mental health. If you’re looking for a new activity or know someone who might benefit from one, it might be time to throw your fishing rods in the water and soak up the beautiful nature around you while we still have the opportunity.
Earlier, Focus wrote about how home workouts change our mental health for the better. Fitness apps designed for home workouts have demonstrated the potential to significantly alleviate depression symptoms among healthcare professionals, offering a possible tool to address common mental health issues in this area.
